Kapanlagi.com - Tingling, or what is medically referred to as paresthesia, is a sensation familiar to many people. Who hasn’t felt tingling after sitting cross-legged for too long or when an arm is pinned down while sleeping? Although often considered trivial, if this tingling occurs repeatedly and lasts for a long time, it could be a signal of a more serious health problem.
This condition arises from disturbances in the nervous system, which can be temporary or chronic. Some common causes of tingling include nerve disorders, diabetes, and even the risk of stroke. Unfortunately, many people tend to underestimate this symptom, even though tingling can indicate a disease that requires immediate medical attention.
So, what are the main causes of the tingling we often experience? How can we prevent it? And when should we start being cautious? Check out the complete explanation summarized by Kapanlagi.com from various sources on Sunday (16/2/2025).
1. The Dangers of Prolonged Tingling
Long-Term Nerve Damage: If the underlying cause of tingling is not addressed, permanent nerve damage may occur. This can lead to significant disruptions in motor and sensory functions, interfering with daily activities.
Disruption of Daily Life: Persistent tingling can disrupt daily activities. For example, tingling in the hands can make writing or typing difficult, while tingling in the feet can make walking challenging. This can lower overall quality of life.
2. Chronic Diseases Causing Tingling
Tingling often serves as an early symptom of various chronic diseases, such as:
- Diabetes: Diabetic neuropathy, nerve damage due to diabetes, often causes tingling, especially in the feet and hands. If uncontrolled, diabetes can lead to other serious complications.
- Kidney Disorders: Impaired kidney function can disrupt the electrolyte balance in the body, which can trigger tingling.
- Stroke: Tingling, especially on one side of the body, can be a sign of a stroke, a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
- Neuropathy: Various types of neuropathy (nerve damage) can cause tingling.
- Brain Tumor: In some cases, tingling can be a symptom of a brain tumor.
- Arthritis: This condition, especially rheumatoid arthritis, can put pressure on nerves and trigger tingling.
- Spinal Cancer: Spinal cancer can compress spinal nerves, causing tingling in the affected areas.
- Multiple Sclerosis: This autoimmune disease attacks the central nervous system and can cause various symptoms, including tingling.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition causes pressure on the median nerve in the wrist, resulting in tingling and pain in the hands and fingers.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Deficiencies in vitamins B1, B6, B12, folic acid, calcium, potassium, or sodium can also cause tingling.
- Food Poisoning: Some types of food poisoning can trigger tingling.
- Other Autoimmune Diseases: Some autoimmune diseases can cause nerve damage and tingling.
3. When to See a Doctor?
Consult a doctor if you experience tingling along with the following signs:
- Persistent (lasting more than a few days)
- Occurring repeatedly without a clear cause
- Accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, muscle weakness, changes in sensation, or balance issues
- Occurring on one side of the body only
Remember that this information is general and cannot replace a consultation with a medical professional. If you have concerns about the tingling you are experiencing, see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
4. How to Prevent and Overcome Tingling
Tingling can be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle. Some steps that can be taken include:
- Maintain blood sugar levels → If you suffer from diabetes, make sure to control your blood sugar levels to prevent diabetic neuropathy.
- Consume neurotropic vitamins → Ensure the body gets enough vitamins B1, B6, and B12 to maintain nerve health.
- Exercise regularly → Physical activity can improve blood circulation and prevent nerve compression.
- Avoid sitting positions that compress nerves → Do not sit cross-legged for too long or sleep in positions that put pressure on your hands or feet.
- Wear comfortable footwear → Avoid shoes that are too tight which can impede blood flow.
If tingling is caused by certain diseases such as carpal tunnel syndrome or diabetic neuropathy, a doctor may recommend physical therapy, medications, or even other medical interventions based on the underlying condition.
5. People Also Ask
1. Is frequent tingling a sign of a serious illness?
Frequent and prolonged tingling can be a sign of nerve disorders, diabetes, stroke, or vitamin B12 deficiency.
2. What should be done when experiencing tingling?
Move the part of the body that is tingling, do some stretching, and ensure that blood flow returns to normal. If the tingling does not go away after a long time, consult a doctor immediately.
3. Can tingling lead to paralysis?
If caused by an untreated nerve disorder, tingling can develop into muscle weakness and even paralysis in certain parts of the body.
4. What is the relationship between tingling and stroke?
Sudden tingling occurring only on one side of the body, accompanied by difficulty speaking or dizziness, can be an early sign of a stroke.
(kpl/rmt)
Disclaimer: This translation from Bahasa Indonesia to English has been generated by Artificial Intelligence.